Irish Soccer Referees

Soccer referees control football matches
and administer the rules of Association Football. In professional and
other top level matches they are aided by two assistant referees (previously
called linesmen). Usually in junior and Schoolboy soccer in Ireland this
roll is performed by the team mangers or other bystanders.

The referee is empowered to administer
the laws of the game and all of his / her decisions are final. Although
there are some professional referees by far the majority are amateurs
although they do receive a small fee to cover out of pocket expenses.

The role of the referee includes controlling
soccer matches in accordance with the laws of the game and in accordance
with the spirit of the sport. The referee ensures that all equipment including
the ball, corner flag, goal nets and players boots are fit for purpose
and meet the relevant regulation standards. Soccer referees also act as
time keepers for the duration of football matches. They use a whistle
to control matches and to signal intent.